How do I identify Hydrozincite?

Hydrozincite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, White to grey color, Pearly, Silky, Dull luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Hydrozincite?

Hydrozincite typically appears in White to grey, stained pale pink, pale yellow, brown. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Hydrozincite?

Hydrozincite has a hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

Hydrozincite

A variety of Minerals

Rare

Hydrozincite specimen - rock identification

What is Hydrozincite?

Hydrozincite has a propensity in nature to form a mineral layer over other, more desirable minerals and acts as almost a cloaking device. Although it is prized for its high fluorescence, it can easily be mistaken for less alluring minerals like calcite. It is predominately made of water and zinc, making it very brittle.

Uses & Applications

Hydrozincite is a minor source of zinc. Zinc is used for a variety of commercial enterprises including paints, plastics, batteries, soaps, fabrics, electronics, and many other applications. Hydrozincite is popular among collectors due to its fluorescence.

Hydrozincite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Hydrozincite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Hydrozincite Localities Map

See where Hydrozincite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Key Characteristics

Formation of Hydrozincite

It occurs as an oxidation product of zinc ores and as post mine incrustations. It occurs associated with smithsonite, hemimorphite, willemite, cerussite, aurichalcite, calcite and limonite.